Rita Ora: Chris Martin helped me pick the track listing for my album

Roc Nation’s Rita Ora talks to Metro about getting advice from Beyonce and Coldplay’s
Chris Martin, being a judge on X Factor and her favourite Spice Girl.

Hot Right Now: Brit singer Rita Ora

What can people expect from your album?

I hope people will be surprised. I want them to hear my voice. I get compared with loads of other singers so it will be nice for people to be able to hear what I sound like.

Are you fed up being compared with others?

I’m not fed up but the comparisons are expected – Beyoncé and Rihanna – because they’re associated with Roc Nation as well. I’d probably think the same but now that people can hear my music, hopefully it will set me apart.

What did you listen to growing up?

My dad used to listen to Sade and more soulful singers like that and I listened with him. Then I’d listen to loads of different stuff that was out – UK garage, pop such as the Spice Girls, loads of different influences.

Who was your favourite Spice Girl?

Sporty. I always wanted the best trainers. She got the best deal. She got to perform in trainers and tracksuit bottoms and the rest of them had to do it in heels.

When did you realise you could sing?

In year four when I was Cinderella in the school play. I didn’t get the best grades but I loved being Cinderella. It was my time to shine and I’ve still got the video. I was like ‘this is me’ – everyone was clapping and paying me attention.

What was the subject of the first song you wrote?

It was when I was 14, called Waiting. It was about breaking up with a guy and saying: ‘I know you’re going to get a new girlfriend but one day you’ll realise I’m the best and I’ll be waiting until that moment.’ That’s not on the album. I want to put it on the second album but no one knows yet.

Has anyone unexpected said they’re a fan of your music?

Chris Martin. He gave me loads of feedback. He went through my songs and told me what he liked. After my final show supporting Coldplay, we all went around to his house and I played him my songs and he helped me pick the order for the album. He said to think of the ones that mean the most to me. He said he loved the way I perform – that I have a lot of energy.

What’s the best advice you’ve received so far?

Beyoncé gave me performing advice. She said if you forget the words put the mic out so the crowd sings along with you. I’ve used it for when I’m out of breath. I run around on stage so much, when I get a bit out breath, I’ll put the mic out and say: ‘Sing along.’

What was being an X Factor judge like?

It was a great experience but I’m so new I didn’t want anyone to think I was judging them. My advice was that they had three minutes to make a good impression on the public. That was like me when I went for my record deal – I had three minutes to get signed. I told them how important that moment is: focus and don’t get thrown off. Some people were like: ‘Oh, I’m sorry, I’m nervous,’ but you only get one shot at being put through. I could relate to them. Then I put a guy through who sang the One Pound Fish song.

Has your sudden fame been difficult to adjust to?

It’s difficult when there’s stuff in the paper moaning that I haven’t had my roots done. If I’m working all the time, doing breakfast radio, an interview, a show and a photoshoot in a day, when am I going to get my roots done? It’s flattering when people know who you are and get your name tattooed on them.

What?

Yeah – it happened yesterday. Someone tweeted me a picture of them with my logo on their arm. It was really nice. It’s like: ‘Wow, I’ve made an impact on you.’ I bet their mums aren’t happy about it.

What have been the highlights?

There’s a new one every day. My first three singles all getting to No.1. Then the Wireless Festival, I really enjoyed that – seeing everyone singing along to my songs was a highlight.

What’s the worst gig you’ve done?

Singing in a bar in the middle of the US. No one was paying attention. They were all buying drinks and chatting each other up. That was last year. Plan B was there, he’s a friend of a friend, and he told me not to worry because he had to sing to two people in some random place. It’s fine. I’ll win them over one fan at a time if I have to. It’ll take a while but we’ll get there.

Have you been sent anything flash for free?

I got a really nice handbag from Asprey. It’s red and it’s got ‘Ora’ on the side. It’s beautiful.

Have you ever had a supernatural experience?

I lived opposite a cemetery when I was eight. One night, I heard footsteps and thought it was a ghost. It might have been my imagination but I do believe in ghosts.

What are your ambitions?

For my album to do well internationally. I’m going to Japan soon, which I’m really looking forward to. It’s just low-key showcases to start with – but I want to go shopping there, that’s the main thing.